Introduction
This Grilled Chicken with Caesar Dressing Marinade brings a zesty, savory twist to juicy grilled chicken. Marinating the chicken in Caesar dressing infuses it with tangy, creamy flavors, while grilling on the Arteflame adds a beautiful char. Serve it with a simple salad or roasted veggies for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
For the Caesar Marinade:
- 1/2 cup Caesar dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Marinade
In a bowl, whisk together Caesar dressing, grated Parmesan, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix until smooth.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
Step 3: Fire Up the Arteflame Grill
Light the Arteflame grill using vegetable oil-soaked napkins and firewood. Allow it to preheat for about 20 minutes until the center grate is hot for a great sear, with the outer flat cooktop at medium-high heat.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the chicken on the hot center grate and sear for 3-4 minutes per side. Move the chicken to the flat cooktop to finish cooking, about 5-7 more minutes, until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Serve
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil and serve with lemon wedges. This chicken pairs well with a green salad, grilled vegetables, or garlic bread.
Tips
- Extra Flavor: For more intense Caesar flavor, reserve a small portion of the marinade (before adding to raw chicken) to drizzle over the cooked chicken.
- Grilling Technique: Use the hot center of the Arteflame for searing and move to the outer cooktop for even cooking.
- Make it a Meal: Serve this grilled Caesar chicken over a simple salad or with roasted potatoes for a complete meal.
Variations
- Caesar Herb Chicken: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the marinade for added depth.
- Spicy Caesar Chicken: Stir in red pepper flakes or cayenne to the marinade for a little heat.
- Cheesy Caesar Chicken: Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top while grilling for a cheesy crust.
- Lemon-Pepper Caesar Chicken: Increase lemon juice and add extra black pepper for a zesty, peppery kick.
- Greek Caesar Chicken: Substitute feta for Parmesan and add a touch of oregano for a Greek-inspired flavor.
Best Pairings
- Side Dishes: Serve with a Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of pasta for a balanced meal.
- Drinks: Pair with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon.
Conclusion
Grilled Chicken with Caesar Dressing Marinade is a quick and flavorful way to elevate chicken. The creamy, tangy Caesar marinade infuses the chicken with bold flavors, while the grill adds a delicious char. Perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering.
